On September 24, Third Church will join with hundreds of churches to recognize "Freedom Sunday" when we will pray and learn what we can do to end modern-day slavery and human trafficking.
Sponsored by International Justice Mission (IJM.org), Freedom Sunday is dedicated to carrying out our Scriptural responsibility to "seek justice and defend the oppressed". (Isaiah 1:17.)
IJM reports that there are more than 45 million children, women and men who are enslaved or victims of human trafficking around the world. Many perform exhausting and life-threatening labor. Others are trapped in sex trades, including the 21st century evil of cybersex. Sadly, this isn't just a global crisis; there are many victims of human trafficking in our local communities.
On Freedom Sunday, our services will include a video by IJM, as well as prayers focused on our responsibility to act missionally towards these suffering sisters and brothers. Between the services, we will be an opportunity to learn more about IJM and its local partner, Richmond Justice Initiative.
Additionally, in conjunction with the Freedom Sunday initiative, there will be a Sunday School class for 10-weeks this Fall focusing on "Doing Justice in a Hurting World." In this class we will learn more about our Biblical responsibility to those who are suffering, and we will be given practical opportunities to serve with our mission partners in RVA.